Do you value yourself? If that question sounds silly to you, add this, “more than others do?” – Do you value yourself more than others do?

Often our self-worth is influenced by what others think, feel, or expect. What job we hold, the car we drive, the house we own, et cetera, all imply values and worth. It’s in the eyes of the beholder.

But if your “self” worth is dictated by others, hinges on what others say, or seeks others’ approval, that becomes problematic especially in today’s social media environment. How many “likes” will it take to be worthy? What if that doesn’t happen?

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports earlier this month that suicide rates in the United States have risen nearly 30% between 1999 – 2016. And it cites mental health is one of the contributing factors.

Never too late to learn to value oneself. Don’t be one’s own harshest critic. Instead, be kind, gentle, and patient with self. Set small goals, take baby steps, and find your own worth.